Aquinas - Summa Theologica v.3 - Theology Tools

1214
QUESTION 108
OF VENGEANCE
(FOUR ARTICLES)
We must now consider vengeance, under which head there are four points
of inquiry:
(1) Whether vengeance is lawful?
(2) Whether it is a special virtue?
(3) Of the manner of taking vengeance;
(4) On whom should vengeance be taken?
P(2b)-Q(108)-A(1)
Whether vengeance is lawful?
P(2b)-Q(108)-A(1)-O(1) — It seems that vengeance is not lawful. For
whoever usurps what is God’s sins. But vengeance belongs to God, for it
is written ( Deuteronomy 32:35, Romans 12:19): “Revenge to Me,
and I will repay.” Therefore all vengeance is unlawful.
P(2b)-Q(108)-A(1)-O(2) — Further, he that takes vengeance on a man
does not bear with him. But we ought to bear with the wicked, for a gloss
on Cant 2:2, “As the lily among the thorns,” says: “He is not a good man
that cannot bear with a wicked one.” Therefore we should not take
vengeance on the wicked.
P(2b)-Q(108)-A(1)-O(3) — Further, vengeance is taken by inflicting
punishment, which is the cause of servile fear. But the New Law is not a
law of fear, but of love, as Augustine states (Contra Adamant. xvii).
Therefore at least in the New Testament all vengeance is unlawful.
P(2b)-Q(108)-A(1)-O(4) — Further, a man is said to avenge himself when
he takes revenge for wrongs inflicted on himself. But, seemingly, it is